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The ground rules for OJ Simpson’s trial on kidnapping and armed robbery charges will be decided today when a Nevada judge decides whether to drop any charges and whether two co-defendants should be tried separately.

Defense lawyers and prosecutors have filed 16 motions, including requests to delay the trial, throw out half of the 12 charges against Simpson and specify what evidence might be admitted.

Michael Sommermeyer, Clark County District Court spokesman, said: “What’s at stake is whether or not they will face all the charges that have been levied against them. Also, whether they’ll be tried together.”

The former American football star and his co-defendants Charles Ehrlich and Clarence “C.J.” Stewart aren’t due in court for the hearing before District Court Judge Jackie Glass.

They are accused of kidnapping and robbing two sports collectibles dealers peddling Simpson memorabilia at a Las Vegas hotel-casino in September.

The judge told defense lawyers and prosecutors last week that she planned to decide pretrial motions on Friday, and intends to adhere to an April 7 trial date she set in November.

Simpson, Ehrlich and Stewart have pleaded not guilty to all charges, including kidnapping, armed robbery and assault with a deadly weapon. Convictions could bring life prison sentences with the possibility of parole.

Simpson’s lawyer, Yale Galanter, said: “Our goal is to carry the day on the robbery charge and have the case dismissed. If not, the second most important issue is how we are going to select a jury.”

A spokesman for District Attorney David Roger declined comment. Roger has characterized efforts to delay the trial as an attempt to sever Simpson’s trial from those of his co-defendants.